Top 10 Scan Tools: Eric Muir, Brighton Auto Service

April 14, 2015
A Michigan-based technician identifies his favorite scan tools.

Shop: Brighton Auto Service

Technician: Eric Muir

Location: Brighton, Mich. 

Eric Muir performs diagnostics, programming and repairs on foreign and domestic high-end vehicles. He also installs and configures all warning and control system modules, including airbags, park assist, object detection, stability and back-up sensors, and more. In addition, Muir also beta tests new-to-market scan tools for various scan tool companies and tool dealers around the United States.

1.) Autel MaxiSYS MS908 scan tool

"I have put this thing through the ringer and tested it against every scanner I get my hands on," says Muir. "Nothing can touch it yet!" This tool offers an A9 quad-core processor and a large 10” LED screen. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/11534608

2.) Chrysler wiTech scan tool

"We all know how tough Chrysler systems are to diagnose," says Muir. "Only a couple aftermarket scan tools get you close without misleading you down the wrong path with a ghost code that doesn't fit the symptom." The wiTech utilizes a Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI) to connect the vehicle to the PC and through the specially configured internet access point to perform diagnostics, reprogramming and security functions. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/12057080

3.) Ford IDS OEM level diagnostic tool

"This OE tool is a workhorse, and has never let me down," says Muir. "Once you get the hang of going in and out of screens and functions, you will get the most out of it." Introduced to the Ford dealer service departments for model year 2005, this PC-based tool covers all Fords models from 1996 to current year. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/12057091

4.) Ross-Tech VCDS factory-level diagnostic tool

"This tool requires a lot of hands-on time," says Muir. "The more time you put into it the more you will get out of it." VCDS, the factory-level diagnostic tool for all VW/Audi vehicles from 1996 through the current model year, provides full access to all control modules. Factory level functions such as coding, basic settings, adaptations and output tests are fully supported. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/11229756

5.) GM MDI scan tool

"This is an excellent device for Global A vehicles," says Muir. The GM MDI scan tool is a compact communication module that manages the transfer of data between a vehicle’s onboard ECU network with an auxiliary CAN bus.

6.) GM GDS2 Global Diagnostic System

"Along with the MDI, this system is even better, faster, stronger than the Tech 2 Win," says Muir. The GM GDS2 Global Diagnostic System is the diagnostic software for the GM MDI scan tool. For more information on the GM MDI scan tool and GM GDS2 Global Diagnostic System, visit VehicleServicePros.com/12057055

7.) Controller Technologies' DRB III Emulator

The Controller Technologies' DRB III Emulator software application runs on a PC and interfaces via USB to the DRB III+ Pass-Thru hardware device, enabling all the original functions a DRB III has for correct diagnosis and repair. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/10913188

8.) Magneti Marelli Vision stand-alone diagnostic system

"From motorcycles to heave duty trucks, cars, SUVs, this tool does it all," says Muir. "It will get you out of a jam." The tool has an 8" touchscreen display, Bluetooth and USB port capability, as well as the Linux operating system. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/11305391

9.) Autel MaxiDAS DS708 diagnostic system

"This rugged little thing gets with the program," says Muir. Features include extensive vehicle coverage for more than 30 domestic, Asian and European makes and more. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/10176527

10.) Drew Techologies CarDAQ-M tool

"It's armed with all of the car manufacturer car websites and all the information," says Muir. The Drew Tech CarDAQ-M is a J2534 tool that supports full OEM diagnostics for VW/Audi vehicles using the ODIS dealership software. For more information, visit VehicleServicePros.com/10225921

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